He was born on November 04, 1950 in Hamburg, Arkansas to the late John "Dusty" Smith and Sybil McAbee Smith. He was a graduate of Monticello High School class of 1968 and attended the University of Arkansas at Monticello. During his high school and college years, David was well known for his artistic and creative ability in drawing for the school newspaper.
David served his Country in the United States Navy from June, 1971 until October, 1973, before returning to Monticello and serving as a Court Clerk for the late Judge Clifton Bond. David had exceptional cooking abilities that he learned from his late mother. He was owner of the Southern Belle restaurant in Monticello for many years. David worked and retired from Universal Ogden/Aramark as Chief Steward and Head Chef. David called the Gulf Coast his second home, as he flew from oil rig to oil rig overseeing their kitchen crews. He was well known by fellow crew members for the amazing meals he would prepare on Thanksgiving and Christmas. He served in this position until his health required him to return home to Monticello.
David was known for his willingness to lend a helping hand to family, friends and neighbors and could always be counted on to prepare a delicious meal or dessert. In his later years, after his own struggles, David was focused on helping others through serving in NA and AA. His main focus over the past few years, was to help others who struggled with addictions, and see them overcome. He was an active member of several AA and NA chapters, as well as the Celebrate Recovery at Pauline Baptist. David was a Christian, and a member of Pauline Baptist Church.
In addition to his parents, David was proceeded in death by his sister Diane Ferrell, and a great nephew Dustin Ferguson. He is survived by his sister Denise Frost of Monticello, several nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, as well as a host of other family.
A memorial service honoring his life will be on Saturday, June 12th at 11:00am at Stephenson-Dearman chapel, officiated by Bro. Rob Leonard and Bro. Larry Clements. A visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Celebrate Recovery in care of Pauline Baptist Church. Online guestbook at www.stephensondearman.com.
Condolences(12)
Alvin and Irma James
Monticello, AR Thursday, June 10, 2021 Denis and family… so sorry to hear about David. He was always fun to visit with. I know he will be missed dearly. Our thoughts and prayers with all youSonia Potter
Monticello, AR Thursday, June 10, 2021 David was a dear friend and touched many lives, he always had that welcoming smile, just as he had in this picture! He will be truly missed by many.Roxanne Shook
Titusville, FL Thursday, June 10, 2021 So sad to hear of David's passing. Please know your family is in my thoughts and prayers.In sympathy,
Roxanne Shook
Sissy Sullivan
Monticello, AR Thursday, June 10, 2021 Denise, my sincere condolences and many prayers 🙏 for you and the rest of the family. I know you've gone through some hard months lately, my heart ❤ goes out to you. I've gone through the same loosing three siblings within three months. It's a pain no one can imagine. Miss you so much, love to you with all my heart ❤ I'm here if you need anything! Continued Prayers 🙏 with love ❤Susan Roberts
Cornerville, AR Thursday, June 10, 2021 I will miss your bear hugs, they were the best!Diana Abney
Sherwood, AR Thursday, June 10, 2021 Denise and family,I so sorry about David's passing. He was a good Christian man and I know he is in heaven reuniting with family and friends. David was loved by so many, he will surely be missed. Sending Love and Prayers during this difficult time,
Sharon McIntyre
MONTICELLO, AR Thursday, June 10, 2021 Dear Denise & Family,Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. I have fond memories of David he was always there to lend an ear to encourage others. Heaven received another angel.
In Christian Love,
Sharon
Jackie Robinson
Atkins, AR Thursday, June 10, 2021 Denise I am so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.Jason Beckham
Monticello, AR Wednesday, June 9, 2021 David meant the world to me and wasn’t just my friend but he was my family. He was always there any time and every time I ever needed him. I love him with all my heart. He will be missed here but what a day it will be to see him in our heavenly Home.Candace Johnson
Monticello, AR Wednesday, June 9, 2021 Denise and family,I am so sad and will miss David so much. I will be praying for you and your family and keeping David’s memory alive. David was such a caring loving and humble man. I am proud I got to have him in my life he enriched my life and so much more.
With deepest sympathy
Candace Johnson
Edith Herring
Monticello, AR Wednesday, June 9, 2021 Such an awesome guy,he loved and lived a lot in his time,you will be missed.Sarah Alice Spencer
MONTICELLO, AR Wednesday, June 9, 2021 You will be greatly missed.